Cycle apparatus having therapeutic and utility aspects

ABSTRACT

An exercising, recreational and utilitarian apparatus, particularly useful for persons handicapped as to use of their lower limbs or having cardio-pulmonary or ancillary physical problems, comprising a mobile chassis having forward and rearward ends referenced to the normal direction of its motion and mounting a forwardly and upwardly inclined adjustable support having thereon a body rest for mid and upper portions of the body of a user and immediately to the rear thereof an upwardly projecting vertically inclined forwardly facing seat which backs the buttocks of the user and induces the forward inclination of the mid and upper portions of the user&#39;s body. Immediately forward of said support, within easy and comfortable reach by the user&#39;s hands, is a transversely extending rod-shaped control bar which commonly mounts the controls for driving, steering and braking said apparatus in the course of its travel. Such controls include a pair of relatively rotatable, laterally spaced, hand manipulated levers through the medium of which said apparatus may be driven, immediately of which levers, and within the reach of fingers of hands gripping said levers, are brake controls which can be operated without removing the hands from said levers. At the same time, without removing the hands from the control levers, the rod shaped control bar is rockable about an axis extending longitudinally of said chassis for steering purposes.

This is a division of previously co-pending application Ser. No.06/618,193 filed on 06/07/84, now U.S. Pat. No. 4,619,462, issued10/28/86.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to means and methods for stimulating,facilitating and inducing the usage of the pedal extremities and/or armsof the human body, basically for purposes of rehabilitation and/orimprovement of their function and to encourage and enable greatermobility for the physically impaired. It also provides means for anexercise of the body and/or its limbs contributing to the rehabilitationof its cardio-pulmonary system. Embodiments of this invention areparticularly significant in that in use thereof the foregoing objectivesor any one or combination thereof can be achieved, as and to the extentrequired, without excessive exertion on the part of the person using thesame. A supplemental and important achievement in the use of theinvention embodiments is a contribution to a sense of well being. At thesame time certain embodiments of the invention afford a physically andmentally beneficial mode of both recreational and utilitytransportation. The invention is therefore multi-faceted as to theproblems with which it deals and the solutions and benefits which itoffers.

The present invention provides an area and manner of treatment ofphysically and/or mentally handicapped persons which has not, to theinventors knowledge, been previously envisioned on the level or in thecontext herein set forth. This treatment not only affords an excellentpotential for use in rehabilitating limbs and the cardio-pulmonarysystem, without exceeding medically prescribed stress limitations, butit also inherently provides a relatively safe, exhilarating source ofstimulus for instigating mental and physical effort on the part ofpatients requiring the same for recovery. This is particularly importantwhere the patients have limb disabilities and there can be no hope fortheir recovery unless they can be induced to take that first steptowards use of the limb or limbs in question in spite of a particularlynegative attitude. The present invention is uniquely applicable in suchcase since it can be approached under conditions where there isvirtually no stress.

The particular embodiments of the invention herein shown and describedare only by way of example and not by way of limitation, either as tothe form of their construction or the manner and nature of theirapplication and/or usage.

The inventor is not aware of any prior publication which is specificallypertinent to the points of novelty of the present invention, which aredirected to the improvement and the conditioning of the body and itsparts as well as the mental uplift of human beings in general,particularly those having difficulty in using their limbs, or any partthereof, or an apparent inability or very limited ability to do so inany respect.

As far as can be determined, the following U.S. Letters Patent wellrepresent the general state of the prior art: U.S. Pat. No. 219,439, toBlend; U.S. Pat. No. 326,247, to Root; U.S. Pat. No. 604,200, toVogeler; U.S. Pat. No. 1,507,554, to Cooper; U.S. Pat. No. 2,327,671, toRupprecht; U.S. Pat. No. 3,336,046, to Seiling; U.S. Pat. No. 3,488,088,to Goldbert et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 3,621,819, to Hooper; U.S. Pat. No.3,759,511, to Zinkin et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 3,877,421, to Brown.

While each of the noted patents suggest to some degree an element of acycle or support structure, they fail both singly and in combination toprovide a concept or construction which per se would anticipate orrender obvious the present invention. Most significantly, none of theprior patents reveal the dynamics or the therapeutic constructionsubject of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention enables and facilitates the design, constructionand optimal usage of therapeutic exercising apparatus having multiplepractical benefits.

Certain embodiments feature pedicycle apparatus wherein the body of aperson is dynamically supported on or in reference to a frame so as torelieve the lower limbs from the normal gravitational load imposed bythe upper portion of the body. The net effect is to substantially freethe lower limbs, and in particular their pedal extremities, from thecompressive and muscular restraints normally experienced in their use.

In one such embodiment of the invention, herein disclosed, by way ofillustration, a frame is provided with a three wheeled base in themanner of a tricycle, with two laterally spaced parallel wheels to therear and the third wheel forward and centered with reference thereto andmounted for rotation on an axle at the lower end of a steering column.The steering column is journalled for rotation about its longitudinalaxis in a bearing type bracket at the forward end of the frame. Thetrunk of the body of the person using the apparatus is dynamicallysupported, in an attitude appropriate to the objective, to transfer theload thereof to the frame and consequently distribute it therethrough toits base wheels. The load of the body in the first instance is springbalanced in correspondence with its size and weight and so positionedthat the feet of the person lightly apply to the underlying groundsurface at a location between and appropriately spaced from the forwardand rear wheels of the frame base. It has been found that thisarrangement of the person's body, with essentially no body load on thelower limbs, mentally stimulates a relatively effortless movementthereof and the result is an extremely easy and highly efficientpropulsion of the wheeled frame which in turn reactively induces what isin fact an ambulatory or gentle running movement of the lower limbs andin the process a light sequential and repetitive application of the feetto the underlying ground surface. It is the dynamic support of the bodywhich facilitates and conclusively aids the effective movement andapplication of the feet to this end. The grip of the ground by the toesand/or soles of the feet need only be minimal to achieve the desiredresult. The factors involved are supportive of one another andcumulative in their effect.

The ability to fully or even partially use their lower limbs and/orpedal extremities is a tremendous boon to those medically ill andhandicapped. At the same time, even a healthy person will find utilityand therapeutic cardio-pulmonary benefit as well as an exhilaratingsense of well being in use of such an apparatus, due to a relativelyweightless feeling.

Both steering and braking are simply and easily controlled by the userof the embodiment just described on a simple incremental manual rotationof a handle bar about a vertical and/or horizontal axis.

This same pedicycle embodiment of the invention can be readily convertedto use as a stationary exercising device by chocking its wheels andplacing a treadmill belt within the limits of the wheels and inunderlying relation to the feet of the user.

A further embodiment of the invention herein contemplated is onedesigned for use by persons who are either incapable of using or veryrestricted as to the use of their lower limbs. This embodiment utilizesa frame provided with a three wheeled base and a therapeutic adjustablesupport for the body and features controls a manual operation of whichis required to lend it mobility. In this instance propulsion is effectedsolely by simple rocking movements of easily grasped and easilymanipulated hand grips, the movements of which are translated by a leversystem which produces corresponding increments of motion of the leadwheel of the vehicle of which it forms a part. The hand grips are at thesame time interrelated with a system of gears to achieve a steeringfunction. Furthermore simple braking controls are provided the operationof which involves a minimal exertion, namely a slight extension andretraction of finger tips of the operator.

As will become readily apparent, and should be understood, certainfeatures of construction of the different embodiments herein set forthand obvious therefrom may be readily interchanged in accordance with thetherapeutic benefit desired.

In general, the purposes and uses of the invention embodiments mayselectively be, but are not limited to, the following:

a. Rehabilitation of limbs;

b. Rehabilitation of the cardio-pulmonary system;

c. Exercise and/or entertainment with ready control of physicalexertion; and

d. Provision of a cycle type vehicle providing an exercise device whichcan be self propelled by handicapped persons with minimal exertion ontheir part and maximum safety in its use.

It is therefore, a primary object of the present invention to provideimproved means and methods for use in the rehabilitation of the limbs ofphysically disadvantaged persons.

Another object is to provide simple and effective means for contributingto the rehabilitation or maintenance of a person's cardio-pulmonarysystem.

A further object is to provide new and improved cycle type exercisingand utility apparatus which is economical to fabricate, more efficientand satisfactory in use, adaptable to a wide variety of applications andunlikely to malfunction.

An additional object is to provide a pedicycle apparatus wherein theoperator is dynamically supported and/or suspended so as to relieve thelower limbs of the weight of the person's body, facilitating the use ofsuch lower limbs freely and easily to achieve a high degree ofpropulsive effect with a relatively minimal amount of physical exertion.

A further object is to provide a new and improved cycle type exercisingstructure embodying handlebar operated propulsion and steering mechanismas well as a brake control the operation of which may be achieved withminimal physical exertion, facilitating rehabilitation of thecardio-pulmonary system by means of upper extremity and torso exertionwithout exceeding medically prescribed stress limitations and at thesame time providing self-propelled mobility for those with impairedlower limbs or those who have had single or double lower limbamputation.

Another object is to provide an improved braking system for cycle typevehicles.

A still further object is to provide a new and improved propulsionsystem for cycle type vehicles which has general application but isparticularly advantageous for use by handicapped persons.

Another object is to provide apparatus having the conceptual aspects,the inherent structural characteristics and the means and mode of useherein described.

With the above and other incidental objects in view as will more fullyappear in the specification, the invention intended to be protected byLetters Patent consists of the features of construction, the parts andcombinations thereof, and the mode of operation as hereinafter describedor illustrated in the accompanying drawings, or their equivalents.

Referring to the drawing wherein are shown some but not the only formsof embodiment of the present invention,

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pedicycle representing one embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view thereof, shown in use;

FIG. 3 is a view which is fragmentary in nature, enlarged and partly insection to show detail of the construction and mount of the support forthe occupant of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a sectional view taken on line 4--4 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken on line 5--5 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 demonstrates details of the brake control;

FIG. 7 demonstrates the brake control of FIG. 3 in the process ofinducing a braking function;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a second cycle type apparatusconstituting a further embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a side elevation view of the cycle of FIG. 8, in use;

FIG. 10 is a fragmentary view of a portion of the control structureutilized in the apparatus of FIG. 8, shown partially in section andenlarged to illustrate pertinent detail;

FIG. 11 is a view taken on line 11--11 of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a view similar to that of FIG. 11 illustrating a position ofthe brake control mechanism enabling a free wheeling condition of thecycle;

FIG. 13 is a view similar to that of FIG. 12 except that it illustratesthe brake control in a locked condition;

FIG. 14 is a fragmentary view of the apparatus of FIG. 9, shown partlyin section, illustrating pertinent detail of its control structureincluding that related to the support for the operator of theillustrated vehicle.

The pedicycle of FIGS. 1-4 comprises a base of three bicycle type wheels10, 12 and 14 triangularly positioned in the manner of the wheels of atricycle, the wheels 10 and 12 being its rear wheels and the wheel 14its forward wheel. These wheels are connected with and in supportingrelation to a three sided frame structure 16 serving as a chassis withinwhich is mounted a "seat" 18 for the operator of the pedicycle.

The frame 16 is an elongate rigid structure formed of two identicallaterally aligned continuous loops of metal tubing 19, bent and joinedtogether to define the sides and front end of a three sided protectiveenclosure. Free access to this enclosure is afforded through its readend, at the respective sides of which are the wheels 12 and 14,connected in a supporting relation thereto.

The loops of tubing 19 are each comprised of an upper section 20 and alower section 22 which in the application of the loops to form thechassis 16 define its upper and lower limits and the longitudinal extentof its sides. The upper sections 20 are in a common horizontal plane asare the lower sections 22.

As the sections 22 extend forwardly from their rearmost ends, they arefirst parallel, for a short distance along their length (these parallelportions each being identified by the numeral 23), then briefly inclinedinwardly towards each other in a forwardly convergent fashion, followingwhich they uniformly and gradually converge to their forward ends, whichare laterally spaced. The sections 20 are somewhat shorter in lengththan the sections 22 and, in a longitudinal sense, positioned within thelimits thereof, intermediately of and spaced from their respective ends.At the same time the sections 20, which have a straight lineconfiguration throughout their length, are maintained in a laterallyspaced relation as they slightly converge from their rear to theirforward ends.

The rear ends of the sections 20 and 22 of each loop 18 smoothly mergewith and are joined by a section 24 thereof, while their forward endsare joined by a section 28.

The lower portion of the section 24 rises vertically upward from andperpendicular to the rear end of the rear portion 23 of the section 22which forms its base, for a distance which corresponds to about onethird its length. From this point the section 24 curves upwardly andforwardly to overlie a short distance along the length of the portion 23and then angle laterally and upwardly to join to the rear end of thesection 20 of the loop of which it forms a part. At the forward end ofits extent which overlies a part of the rear end portion 23 of thesection 22, the section 24 is welded to the upper end of a tube section26 which rises from and perpendicular to the portion 23. The lower endof the tube section 26 is welded to the portion 23 at a point adjacentand in a relatively closed spaced relation to its rearmost end.

Between their vertical extremities the forward sections 28 of the loops19 are projected outwardly and forwardly of the ends of the sections 20and 22 to which they respectively connect and with which they smoothlymerge. When viewed in profile in FIG. 1, it will be seen that theforward limit of each section 28 is defined by a projected apex portion29 the outer limit of which defines a flat which is relativelyvertically oriented. In the example illustrated, the apex portions 29are located slightly below the center of the vertical extent of thesections 28. Furthermore, as the sections 28 are projected beyond thesections 20 and 22, they are caused to converge to the point that theirapex portions 29 are brought together in a plane which bisects the frame16. At the point where the apex portions 29 are brought together theyare joined to each other and to the rearmost edge of a small web plate32 by welding. As so fixed, the plate 32 is disposed in theaforementioned vertical plane and its forward edge, which is angled toincline upwardly and rearwardly from a vertical, is welded to a shorttubular element 34, by virtue of which the element 34 is similarlyinclined to provide a steering head for the frame 16 each of therespective ends of which fixedly contains a bearing assembly (notshown). A bicycle fork 36 is conventionally arranged to have its tubularupper end portion project into the head 34, by way of the bearing at itslower end, to extend through the bearing and upwardly of the head for asubstantial portion of its longitudinal extent. At the same time thelower bifurcated portion of the fork 36 is positioned immediately belowthe head 34 to depend downwardly therefrom in a direct coaxial alignmenttherewith to a point immediately adjacent its lower end, from whichpoint the bifurcated portion is bent forwardly and downwardly in asmooth curved configuration. At the forwardmost limit of this curve,which corresponds to the lowermost end of the fork 36, the bifurcatedpart of the fork is bridged by a releasably fixed axle which projectsthrough the tubular hub of the wheel 14 and thereby mounts the wheel forrotation thereon and relative thereto. As will be seen, the wheel 14 isthereby positioned in a laterally centered spaced relation with respectto the laterally spaced dependent portions of the bifurcated part of thefork. A tubular stem 38 has one diametrically slit end portiontelescopically applied to and within the upper end portion of the fork36 and it is clamped and fixed thereto on the drawing therein of a wedgewhich is threadedly engaged by and under the control of the stemexpanding bolt 40. As so interconnected therewith, the stem 38 forms anupward extension of the fork 36 as it projects to and through thebearing in the upper end of the head 34 and, to a limited extent,outwardly thereof. The uppermost end of the stem 38 is capped andvertically extended, to a modest degree, by one end of a short outwardlyand generally radially directed steering arm 41 which serves to mountthereto the handlebar 42. Attention is directed to the fact that themeans and method by which the stem assembly is applied within the head34 and interconnected with the upper end portion of the fork 36, as wellas the manner of the mount of the wheel 14 to the lower end of the fork36 and the means and method by which the fork and the stem assembly arerestrained from relative axial displacement with reference to the head34 are conventional and well known by mechanics versed in the art.Therefore the details thereof have been limited and set forth only tothe extent necessary for an understanding of the present invention.

However, it will be seen that there has been some modificaton of thestem and the handlebar assembly for purposes of and in accordance withthe present invention. Such will be hereinafter described.

At each side of the frame 16, a short length of metal tubing 44 has oneend thereof joined by welding to the outermost side of the tube section26, at a point adjacent and spaced from its uppermost end. The tubing 44is formed with a 90° bend to provide that a short portion of its lengthprojects laterally of the frame 16, outwardly from and perpendicular tothe tube section 26. The remainder of the tubing 44 depends vertically,in a parallel outwardly spaced relation to the tube section 26, toposition its opposite end in the horizontal plane occupied by thesections 22 of the loops 19, where it is welded to the rear end of afurther length of tubing 46. The latter is co-planar with the sections22 and so formed as to first extend forwardly of the lower end of thetubing 44, at a right angle thereto and in a parallel spaced relation tothe rear end portion 23 of the section 22 of the adjacent loop. Wherethe tubing 46 reaches a point laterally aligned with the forward limitof this portion 23, the remainder thereof, which is of appropriatelength, is bent at a 90° angle to have its projected extremity joinedthereto by a weld. A transverse aperture in the rear end of the tubing46 adjacent the tube section 44 is coaxially aligned with a similaraperture in the portion 23 of the adjacent section 22.

At each side of the frame 16, the tube sections 26, 44 and 46 define aframe, open at its bottom and to its rear, within which the forwardupper quadrant of the wheel 10 or 12, as the case may be, is inserted,to coaxially align its tubular hub with aligned apertures provided inthe tube section 46 and the adjacent tube portion 23. A conventionalaxle applied through the aligned apertures and within the hub of thewheel therebetween, and suitably fixed with reference to the tubesection 46 and the adjacent tube portion 23, mounts the wheel for freerotation thereon and relative thereto.

The frame 16 is thereby stably mounted on and rendered mobile by thetriangularly positioned wheels 10, 12 and 14.

The loop 19 at each side of the frame 16 has in connection therewith,and within the bounds thereof, a length of rigid metal tubing 48 whichhas a straight line configuration. One end of the length of tubing 48 iswelded to the forward end of the section 22 and its opposite end iswelded to the section 20 of the loop of which it forms a part at a pointadjacent to but spaced to the rear of the midpoint of its length. Eachloop 19 also incorporates a shorter length of rigid tubing 50 having astraight line configuration one end of which is welded to the length oftubing 48 adjacent and spaced below the midpoint of its length and theopposite end of which is welded to the interconnected section 22 at apoint slightly forward of the midpoint of its length.

As will be seen from FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawings, the lengths oftubing 48 and 50 of each loop are not only relatively inclined but theyare so inclined and attached to the loop 19 to which they apply as toproduce a reinforcement thereof. Furthermore, the lengths of tubing 48at the opposite sides of the frame 16 have coaxially aligned apertures51 adapted to be bridged by a horizontally oriented pivot rod 52 locatedat a level adjacent to and spaced above that of the points at which theyare joined to the upper ends of the lengths of tubing 50. The rod 52serves to mount thereon, and in pivotal relation thereto, the forwardend of the "seat" 18, in such a manner that it is securely connected toand stably supported on the frame 16. Note that the members 48 have aseries of longitudinally spaced apertures 51 to enable that the pivotalconnection of the "seat" 18 may be raised or lowered, depending on itsuse.

The "seat" 18 comprises a generally rectangular frame 54 made of rigidmetal tubing.

Each of the longitudinally extending sides of the frame 54 has a pair ofbearing elements, respectively 60 and 62, connected thereto anddependent therefrom in a longitudinally spaced relation. The element 60is a transversely oriented sleeve located adjacent and spaced from theforward end of the frame 54. The element 62 which is also transverselyoriented is located adjacent to and spaced forwardly of the rear end ofthe frame 54. The element 62, moreover, has an inverted "U" shape, thelegs of which are dependent and interconnected by an applied bolt andnut adjacent their lower ends, to form therewith a loop which can beexpanded or contracted as needs require. The elements 60 and 62dependent from each side of the frame 54 are identically positionedunder and in a closely spaced relation to the undersurface of that sideportion from which they depend. The elements 60 are thereby establishedin a transversely spaced coaxial relation, as are the elements 62.

In the mount thereof to the frame 16, the forward end of the frame 54 isprojected between the tube members 48 and slightly beyond in order toplace the sleeve members 60 in a coaxial alignment with the apertures 51to commonly therewith receive therethrough the rod 52 the ends of whichare releasably fixed to the respective members 48 by bolts.

Integrally connected with and dependent from the undersurface of theframe 54, to either end thereof and in a laterally centered relationwith respect to its sides, are short sections of tubing which are weldedat their lower ends to longitudinally spaced portions of a tube 66. Thetube 66 underlies the frame 54 in a parallel spaced relation thereto andprojects, to a limited extent, rearwardly thereof. A smaller diametertube 68 has one end thereof telescopically applied to and within therear end of the tube 66 and fixed thereto by a set screw 67. For a shortdistance along its length the tube 68 provides a direct rearwardextension of the tube 66 to the point where its rear end portion is bentupwardly to produce therein a 90° curve and to mount at the frontthereof a backing support for a foam filled cushion 69 which is in anadjacent spaced relation to the rear end of the frame 54. The frame 54also mounts in connection therewith and in overlying relation to itsupper surface a further foam filled cushion 70 which is formed tooverlie its sides and depend over its rear end, in a directly oppositespaced relation to the cushion 69. As will be obvious the spacingbetween the rear end portion of the cushion 70 and the cushion 69 can bereadily adjusted on a release of and a resetting of the tube 68 withrespect to the tube 66.

The bearing elements 62 which are located at a level between and spacedfrom the frame 54 and the underlying tube 66 receive therein, in bearingrelation thereto, a central portion of the length of a tube element 72.The opposite end portions of the tube 72, which are equal in length,symmetrically project outwardly beyond the sides of the frame 54, to alimited extent, and are then bent upwardly and inwardly in convergentfashion to terminate a short distance above the cushion 70, closelyadjacent to but outwardly of its respective sides.

Each of the end portions of the tube 72 is flattened and provided with acentral aperture in which is hooked one end of a chain 74. The twochains 74 extend upwardly of the element 72 in a slightly convergentfashion to have their upper ends respectively anchored to hook-typeattachments integrated with and projected from the lateral extremitiesof the bridging base portion 75 of an elongate U-shaped rod member 76(FIGS. 1 and 2). In the example of FIG. 2, the member 76 is mounted in aplane spaced above and parallel to the plane of the upper sections 20 ofthe loops 19, with its bridging portion located, approximately, directlyabove the midpoint of their length. The elongate leg portions 78 of themember 76 are projected rearwardly of its base, to and through bores oflaterally spaced block elements 79, in bearing relation thereto. Theblocks 79 are themselves mounted on and in bearing relation to a pivotrod 80 which projects through bores in the blocks 79 to have itsrespective extremities dispose in bores provided in blocks 82. Theblocks 82 respectively position above the sections 20 to either side ofthe frame 16. Each of the blocks 82 have a bore through the lowerportion of their vertical extent, through which bore is projected a rod84 the respective ends of which are secured in clamps 86 positioned inlongitudinally spaced relation in connection with a rear end portion ofthe tube section 20 of the loop 19 to which they apply. The arrangementis such that the rods 84 are positioned immediately above and in spacedparallel relation to the portion of the section 20 thereunder. At thesame time the rods 84 accommodate an adjustment of the blocks 82 alongthe length thereof to that position which is required, in any particularinstance for the setting of the rod 80 and the blocks 79 which mountthereon. The rear ends of the leg members 78 of the U-shaped member 76are extended by telescopically applied tubular elements 88. The rearmostends of the elements 88 are flattened and incorporate apertures to eachof which is connected one end of a coiled tension spring 90, theopposite end of which is angled forwardly and downwardly to interconnectwith an eyelet-shaped attachment integrated with the adjacent section 24of the loop 19 to which the spring is applied. As shown in FIG. 2, thesprings 90 which respectively apply to the rearmost extremities of theextensions 88 of the leg members 78, by virtue of their lateralinterconnection with the sections 24 of the frame 16, adjacent theiruppermost ends, establish a force on the rear end of the assembly 78, 88to pivot the same, together with the blocks 79 to which they apply toestablish a desired orientation thereof and create a dynamicallybalancing force which establishes a desired inclination of the "seat" 18under the influence of the support thereof through the medium of thetube element 72 and the interconnected chains 74.

As should be readily apparent, a set screw applied to each of the blocks79 may be turned inwardly thereof to engage and fix the position of theU-shaped member 76 with respect thereto. Similarly, the elements 88 maybe fixed in a position to provide any desired projection thereof fromthe leg members 78, within their limits, also by means of theapplication thereto of a set screw. The same applies in reference to theblocks 82 which may be fixed in a selected position of adjustment alongthe rods 84 by means of set screws.

The adjustment of the assembly 78, 88 forwardly or rearwardly withreference to the blocks 79 as well as the positioning of the blocks 82along the rods 84 will depend upon the weight of the body portion of thepedicycle operator which is applied on and to the seat 18 and inaccordance with the length of the lower limbs of the operator whichdepend from the "seat". As will be evident, the arrangement, withparticular reference to blocks 82, provides a spring actuated lever(member 76) and a movable fulcrum (blocks 82) therefor.

Considering further the stem and handlebar assembly, as seen in FIGS. 1,2, 6 and 7, the upper end portion of the stem 38 projects through acentral aperture in a rectangular plate 94. This aperture is rimmed by acollar 95 connected to form an integral part of the plate. It is througha tapped radial aperture in this collar that a set screw is applied tofix the plate 94 to the stem 38 immediately above that point at which itexits from the upper end of the steering head 34. The plate 94 furtherincludes a pair of small diameter apertures 96, positioned to oppositesides of, radially spaced from and outwardly of both the head 34 and thestem 38.

A conventional bicycle brake 97 is mounted to each of the tube sections26 at each of the opposite outer sides of the frame 16, immediatelybelow the upper end of the interconnected tube section 44. The brakes 97are respectively arranged for application to the rims of the wheels 10and 12. Each brake has a control cable 98 interconnected therewith. Eachcable 98 is arranged to extend into and through the section 22 of theadjacent loop of tubing 19 to its forward end and then upwardly throughthe lower end portion of the following section 28 to exit therefrom byway of an aperture at the lower extremity of its apex portion 29. Eachcable then extends upwardly to and through the aperture 96 in the plate94 which is most adjacent thereto. The cables 98 have their uppermostends respectively anchored to fittings 99 secured in connection withdiametrically opposite inner surface portions of the curved end of aJ-shaped bar 100 which normally cups the inner end of the arm 41, in aconcentric spaced relation thereto. The remote end of the bar 100 isanchored to the handlebar 42, by welding, immediately to the left of theprojected end portion of the arm 41, a collar 101 applied about andfixed to the handlebar by a set screw being positioned therebetween. Asecond collar 101 is similarly applied to the handlebar immediately tothe right of the outer end portion of the arm 41 (as viewed by theoccupant of the "seat" 18). As so arranged, the collars 101 precludelateral movement of the handlebar.

The projected end portion of the arm 41 is conventionally constructed toserve as a clamp. To this end a slit 102 directed inwardly of itsprojected extremity, in a plane parallel to its upper and lowersurfaces, is expanded to form a bore at its innermost end. It is in thisbore, which extends transversely of and opens from the sides of the arm,that the central portion of the handlebar is positioned in the assemblythereof to the arm.

In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 1-4, a split frictionbearing (not shown) is applied to and about the central portion of thehandlebar prior to its assembly. For purposes of its assembly the upperand lower parts of the outer end portion of the arm 41, as defined bythe slit therein, are spread sufficiently to receive therein the centralportion of the handlebar with said friction bearing applied thereto. Thehandlebar and the bearing are then pushed inwardly of the slit untilthey mutually seat within the bore at its inner end. In the process ofthis assembly, the previously applied collars 101 respectively positionto the sides of and in essentially bearing relation to the arm 41. Thisinsures against the lateral shifting of the handlebar with respectthereto. The superposed portions of the outer end of the arm 41,immediately beyond the bore, are interconnected by a conventionallyapplied bolt which is then adjusted to clamp the friction bearing aboutthe central portion of the handlebar in a manner to effect a frictionalconnection therebetween as well as a frictional connection between thebearing and the wall which bounds the bore. The degree of application offriction is made such that the handlebar will be maintained in theoriginal position to which it is set under normal circumstances. Undersuch normal circumstances the grip portions 104 at the extremities ofthe handlebar will in the present instance project upwardly in anessentially vertical orientation. As will be seen, an occupant of theseat 18 can manually grip the handlebar portions 104 to achieve whateversteering is required in a simple and effortless fashion. At the sametime, merely by applying a forward force on one or both of the gripportions, the occupant can induce a limited degree of rotation of thehandlebar in a forward direction in the process of which theinterconnected J-shaped bar rotates therewith and induces a leveragedtensioning of the brake cables 98, whereby to quickly and effectivelyoperate the brakes 97 to induce thereby a closing thereof on the rims ofthe wheels 10 and 12, respectively. The arrangement here provided forcontrol of braking is significantly effective to convert a relativelylimited exertion on the part of the operator of the pedicycle into asubstantial mechanical advantage which insures full braking as and whenrequired. Due to the limited forward rotation of the grips 104 requiredfor braking, on release thereof the tensioned brake cables will per sebe effective to restore the handlebar to its originally set position.

Attention is directed to the fact that the features of the abovedescribed braking system and its obvious benefits makes it per se highlyadvantageous for general application to a great variety of cycle typevehicles, independently of its significance and advantage in suchembodiments of the invention as herein described.

The foregoing description is referenced to a preferred embodiment of theinvention such as set forth in FIGS. 1-4 of the drawings.

Attention is drawn to the fact that, while less preferred, a dynamicbalance of the seat 18 and the body of an occupant thereof may beachieved through the medium of a biasing influence imposed on theforward extremity of the frame 54 rather than on its rear. To this end adevice such as the member 76 may be adjustably mounted to the undersideof the frame 54 to selectively project forwardly thereof. In such eventa pair of spring elements, such as the springs 90, will have their oneends anchored to the forward extremity of the member 76, in a laterallyspaced relation, and their opposite ends anchored to portions of thesides of the frame 16 below and to the rear thereof. The constructionand arrangement of the parts, in such case, is believed obvious.

The pedicycle of FIGS. 1-4 can be effectively used by any person to goodadvantage as noted previously. However, the availability of the same isparticularly advantageous to those who are handicapped either by reasonof a debilitation of or an injury to the lower limbs, or one thereof.The same applies to those persons disabled or disadvantaged bycardio-pulmonary problems. In either case, a means for stimulating orcreating a potential of rehabilitation of such patients with minimalexertion on inception of a program to this effect answers a long feltneed in the field of therapy. This is what in fact is provided by thepresent invention.

As will be seen from FIG. 2, for use of the embodiment of the inventionthere shown the legs of the person to be exercised will be caused tostraddle the tube 68 immediately to the rear of the frame 54 as the bodyis inclined forwardly over the cushion 70 to rest the abdomen and lowerchest portion thereof thereon. This procedure is facilitated by the opennature of the frame 16 and, where required, a temporary release of theset screw 67 to enable a 180° rotation of the tube 68 and the backingportion of the seat 18 at its rear end. This adjusted position of therear end of the seat may be temporarily fixed by appropriate setting ofthe screw 67 until the body is positioned as described. At that pointthe set screw may be once more released and the tube 18 and itsinterconnected backing structure returned to its normal position for usethereof. Attention is directed to the fact that with the seat and allits parts in place for use and a person mounted as described the cushion69, as backed by its support, will set in backing abutted relation tothe buttocks and in underlying relation to the hips. At the same timethe spacing between the cushion 69 and the assembly of the frame 54 andcushion 70 will be such that the upper forward portion of the thighs ofthe person will be between the two cushions and thereby protected in amanner believed obvious.

If not previously set, suitable adjustments are then made to so positionthe member 76 as to insure that the springs 90 function to maintain adynamic balance of the trunk of the body so as to leave the dependentlimbs free of any load thereon from the body per se and so elevated withreference to a ground level that only limited portions of the toesand/or the undersurface of the feet will in any case come into contactwith the immediately underlying ground surface. This insures thatessentially the full weight of the body is supported by the frame 16 andcorrespondingly by its base wheels 10, 12 and 14 which render the framemobile at all times absent a braking of its wheels. Of course the extentand degree of contact of the feet can be varied as desired but in anycase the legs will be kept essentially free of body load. The net resultis to enable the lower limbs to swing in pendulum fashion and in amanner to resemble a stride, with an absolutely minimal exertionrequired on the part of the person or a minimal impulse being applied tothese limbs. As will be seen, in each swinging movement of a limb orlimbs no more than a tip portion of a foot need come into contact withthe ground surface in order to induce a movement of the pedicycle, sinceit is a free wheeling vehicle. At the same time, the hands of the personmounted on the seat 18 will grasp the grips 104 of the handlebar, notonly giving a sense of stability and control to the person but a readyability to steer and in fact brake the rear wheels with a minimalexertion in this respect also. The whole effect on the person using thepedicycle is a sense that his or her body is extremely light in weight,essentially floating and stably balanced. The most significantpsychological aspect of the condition of the person is that when he orshe finds that only a very minimal inpulse or exertion is required toinduce a swinging of the lower limbs, effort will be made in thisrespect and as a foot comes into contact with underlying ground surfacewith a resultant unexpected propulsive effect with respect to thepedicycle, this enhances the confidence and satisfaction of the personbeing exercised.

This psychological reaction is extremely important in that it induces afeeling that rehabilitation of the limbs is possible, to which the bodywill inherently and reactively respond to good effect. It is found inuse of the pedicycle that it takes very little to induce a feeling ofambulating or running. This is a significant step towards giving theperson being exercised a will to go forward. The apparatus can be usedin the same context in dealing with the recovery of a paraplegic. It isnot unlikely, in any case, that the effect of this exercising procedurecan enhance the healing process requried through improvement ofcirculation, kinesthesia development and accelerated stimulation ofneuritization. As the use of the pedicycle is advanced, the upwardlyinclined angle of the portion 54, 70 of the seat may be increased andthe feet brought into greater contact with the underlying groundsurface. The end result on the part of a person subjected to thisexercise will be more than physical improvement, it will be arealization that the pedicycle itself is a most convenient vehicle whichcan give exercise to the body with cardio-pulmonary benefits. It willalso be found that when one is using the pedicycle one can travel quiterapidly, with little effort, over an extended distance in a relativelyshort period of time.

As should be self-apparent, the hand manipulation and extension of thearms required for steering and braking as propulsion is increased alsohave obvious beneficial therapeutic consequences.

It is noted that the pedicycle represents a safe, pleasing method ofexercise for post-coronary patients that may give more comfort andsatisfaction to such patients that regular walking or stationaryexercise.

As has been mentioned also, the use of the pedicylce is an exhilaratingexperience which may be likened to gliding through space (kinesthesia)quite similar to walking on the moon. A side benefit in its use is thata person can travel a considerable distance with ease and littleexpended energy and at the same time provide an attachment which willenable the pedicycle to carry loads. The pedicycle may even be utilizedin an industrial environment as the utility vehicle adapted fortransport of loads by means of one operator who can induce propulsionthereof with a minimal of effort and certainly without the expensenormally entailed for the use of fuel.

The embodiment of FIGS. 8-14 comprises two identical loops of tubing 119joined to form the sides and front end of a frame 116 defining a chassisfor a cycle-type apparatus which is based on three bicycle wheels 10, 12and 14. The connection, mount and disposal of said wheels is essentiallythe same as that previously described with reference to the embodimentof FIGS. 1-7.

In this instance the length of each loop 119 comprises a portion 120 toserve as its upper limit and a portion 122, which is in a spaced,substantially parallel relation to the portion 120, to serve as itslower limit. The portions 120 and 122 are joined at what constitutetheir rear ends in use by a portion 124 which forms an included angle ofabout 110° with the portion 122 and a complementary angle with theportion 120, to which it is interconnected by an arcuate extensionthereof. The opposite or forward ends of portions 120 and 122 are joinedby a portion 128 which at one end thereof forms an included angle ofabout 135° with the portion 122 and extends therefrom in a straight linefor a major portion of its length, following which it is then curvedinwardly and upwardly on a uniform radius to have its projectedextremity merge with the end of the portion 120 to which it connects.Interposed in the portion 120 of the loop 119, at a location centeredbetween its ends, is an upwardly vertically directed narrow plate 121embodying therein a series of vertically aligned, vertically spacedapertures 123.

The sides of the frame 116 are defined by the limits of the upper, rearand lower portions of the loops 119. Its front end is defined by thelimits of the loop portions 128 which converge as they project forwardlyof its sides to have their projected arcuate extremities position in aside-by-side abutted relation in a vertical plane which is parallel tothe sides of and bisects the frame 116. At this point the projectedextremities of the portions 128 are joined to each other and to therearmost edge of a small complementarily configured web plate 132 whichis thereby disposed in the aforementioned vertical plane. The forwardlyprojected edge of the plate 132 mounts a short tubular post so itinclines upwardly and rearwardly from a vertical to provide a steeringhead for the frame 116 each of the respective ends of which has nestedtherein and fixedly related thereto a bearing assembly (not shown).

A bicycle fork 136 is arranged to have its tubular upper end portionproject into and upwardly of the head 134 by way of the lower bearingtherein and to have, as well, an extension 138 thereof project upwardlyand outwardly of the upper end of the head 134. A bevel gear 140 ismounted about and in connection with the projected extremity of theextension 138. Conventional means are utilized to prevent a relativeaxial movement of the tubular upper end portion of the fork 136 and thehead 134. At the same time, the lower bifurcated portion of the fork hasthe upper end thereof positioned immediately below the head and itslaterally spaced parts dependent to either side of an upper portion ofthe wheel 14 to align coaxial apertures therein with the tubular hub ofthe wheel and accommodate the projection therethrough and in bearingrelation thereto of the respective ends of an axle lodged within and inconnection with the hub. By such means the wheel 14 is mounted forrotation on and relative to the fork 136. This establishes the front endof the frame 116 in an elevated relation to the underlying groundsurface.

A length of metal tubing 144 applied to each of the remote outer sidesof the frame 116 has one end portion thereof connected with andprojected outwardly from and substantially perpendicular to the upperportion 120 of the length of a loop 119 at a point adjacent and inclosely spaced relation to its rear end. The remainder of the length oftubing 144 is bent to extend downwardly in a straight line which isparallel to both the plane of the adjacent loop and the straight linepart of its rear portion 124. In each case the lower end of the tubing144 is connected to form a joint with the rear end of a further lengthof tubing 146 which extends forwardly in the plane of the portions 122of the frame 116 and parallel to the portion 122 of the adjacent loop.The forward end portion of the length of tubing 146 is bent inwardly atsubstantially a 90° angle to have its projected extremity end abuttedand welded to the adjacent loop portion 122. An aperture directedthrough and transversely of the joint between the tubing 144 and 146 iscoaxial with a similar aperture in the adjacent loop portion 122. Ateach side of the frame 116, the tube sections 144 and 146 together withthe adjacent tube portion 122 define a frame which is open to its bottomand to its rear and formed to accommodate, freely, the forward upperquadrant of the wheel 10 or 12, as the case may be, to have the tubularhub of the wheel coaxially aligned with the aperture in the jointbetween the tubes 144 and 146 and the aperture in the adjacent loopportion 122. An axle is conventionally applied through the alignedapertures and the hub of the wheel which is positioned therebetween andsuitably fixed to provide for a mount of the wheel for free rotationthereon and relative thereto. The wheels 10 and 12, so applied, supportthe rear end of the frame 116 in a spaced elevated relation to theunderlying ground surface. The frame 116 is thereby stably mounted onand rendered mobile by the interconnected wheels 10, 12 and 14. Thearrangement is such to establish the lower loop portions 122 in ahorizontal plane. Immediately forward of the rear wheels 10 and 12 thelower portions 122 of the loops 119 are transversely bridged by a pairof shallow, laterally expanded, relatively dependent U-shaped bars whichare longitudinally spaced. The upper ends of these bars are welded tothe portions 122 and the lower base portions thereof are bridged by asuperposed, interconnected foot plate 125 which defines a footrest.Immediately to the rear and immediately forward of the location of theplate 125, each loop 119 is identically reinforced by a verticallyoriented rod 113 extending between and having the ends thereofrespectively connected to its upper and lower portions 120 and 122.

Attention is directed to the fact that the upper level of the portions120 of the loops 119 is in this case approximately waist high as relatedto the body of an average person.

A tubular post 127, one end of which is anchored to the rear of theU-shaped bars, in laterally centered relation thereto, immediately ofthe footrest 125, rises upwardly therefrom and perpendicular thereto toposition its uppermost extremity at a location below and spaced from thelevel of the portions 120 of the loops 119. The post 127 telescopicallynests an adjustable tubular extension 129 which is projected upwardlytherefrom, coaxially therewith, and releasably fixed thereto by a setscrew.

Mounted on and pivotally connected to the upper end of the extension 129is a tube member 131 which corresponds to the element 66 of the firstdescribed embodiment of the invention. A body rest frame 154 having asuperposed cushion mounts in an elevated, closely spaced, parallelrelation to the tube 131 by means of interconnecting, longitudinallyspaced, perpendicularly related short tube sections, seen in FIG. 14.Note that the pivot connection between the tube 131 and the element 129is located in line with the center of the body rest 154 and theprojection of the tube element 131 to the rear of its pivot connectionis substantially less than its projection forwardly of this point.

A relatively short rectangular frame member 183 is also fixed inelevated spaced relation to the tube 131, in this instance at a positionimmediately forward of and at a level above and substantially parallelto the cushioned frame 154. The frame 183 is located to position betweenand have its lateral extremities adjacent to the plates 121 whichrespectively project upwardly of the loops 119. The frame 183 hascentral apertures in its lateral extremities aligned with correspondingapertures in the plates 121 to commonly therewith receive therethroughbolts 144 to which nuts are applied to fix the position of the frame183. The level of the interconnection of the bolts 144 to the plates 121will be determined by the size of the person to occupy the cycle.Telescopicallly applied in and projected through and beyond each of therespective ends of the tube 131 is a tubular member 137 the rearmostextremity of which has an upwardly directed perpendicularly projectedextension 139 which mounts forwardly thereof a cushioned element 141opposite and in spaced relation to the rear end of the cushioned portionof the frame 154. The forwardly projected end portion of the tube member137, at a point beyond the forward extremity of the tube 131, has inconnection therewith a radially projected arm 143 through the medium ofwhich the tube 137 may be rotated to dispose the interconnectedcushioned element 141 in a dependent relation to the tube 137 thereby tofacilitate access to the "seat" of the cycle by its user.

As will be obvious from the drawings, a screw 145 in connection with thetube 131 is used to clamp the member 137 in its selected position ofadjustment with respect thereto.

As will be seen, the tube 131 and its associated structure 137, 139,141, 154 and 183 serve to provide a support and seat for the occupant ofthe apparatus illustrating a second embodiment of the invention which isdisclosed in FIGS. 8-14 of the drawings. Furthermore the pivotedconnection of this seat to the adjustable post 127, 129 taken togetherwith an appropriate interconnection thereof with the plates 121determine by their setting not only the height of this seat to suit theapplication of the cycle but also the degree of upward inclination ofthe seat from its rear to its forward end. Such inclination per se is acharacteristic of embodiments of this invention and of materialtherapeutic benefit to their occupant.

A vertical support 151 is fixed transversely of and in bridging,upstanding relation to the upper portions 120 of the loops 119 in anadjacent spaced relation to their forward ends. The upper portion of thesupport 151 is defined by a single vertically oriented post, the upperextremity of which is welded to a horizontal tube member 152, at alocation adjacent and spaced slightly forward of what may be consideredto be its rear end. The tube 152 is laterally centered with reference tothe loop portions 120 and receives therethrough, in bearing relationthereto, a rod 162 which projects from its respective ends. Theforwardly projected extremity of the rod 162 fixedly mounts a bevel gear142 which is positioned to mesh with the gear 140. At its rear extremitythe rod 162 is welded in connection with and perpendicular to atransversely disposed rod 163, at its center.

Mounted about and in a concentric bearing relation to the rod 163, atone end thereof, is a first sleeve 167. The sleeve 167, in turn, mountsthereabout, in bearing relation thereto, a second sleeve 165. Theconcentric sleeves 167 and 165 have their outer end surfaces in aco-planar relation and so positioned to be co-planar with the projectedend surface of that end portion of the rod 163 about which they mount.The sleeve 165 is somewhat shorter in length than the sleeve 167 andinwardly thereof the sleeve 165 mounts thereabout a narrow collar 190.The collar 190 and the portion of the sleeve 167 about which it mountsare provided with aligned tapped apertures into which a short screw isapplied to join them for their conjoint rotation about and relative tothe rod 163. The collar 190 is welded to and forms the rear end of alever 181 the purpose of which will be further described. A cap 168applied over the outermost ends of the sleeves 165 and 167 is securedand maintained in place by a bolt applied through an aperture in itscenter to threadedly engage in a coaxial, tapped, blind bore in the endof the rod 163 about which the sleeves 167 and 165 concentricallyposition. Suitable bearing surfaces are provided at the inner surfaceportions of the cap to facilitate a good bearing relation between thesleeves and the cap, to enable their free bearing and relative rotationas and to the extent required.

An identical set of sleeves 167, 165; cap 168; bolt 166; and collar 190is identically applied to the opposite end of the rod 163, to similaryinterrelate, the only difference being that the collar 190 in thisinstance forms the rear end of a lever 180 which, however, has aconstruction and purpose like that of the lever 181.

Fixed to each sleeve 165, in a relatively closely spaced relation to theadjacent cap 168, is one end of a short tube 170 which projects radiallyoutward and upward therefrom and perpendicular to its outer surface. Thetube 170, in each case, is coaxial with small relatively aligned radialapertures respectively provided in the sleeves 165 and 167. The outerend of each tube 170 is capped by one end portion of one leg of arelatively fixed, relatively narrow plate 173 which has a right angleprofile. This leg extends radially outward from and in a directionforwardly of the tube 170, towards the forward end of the frame 116 andhas the other leg of the plate 173 in dependent relation thereto at itsoutermost edge to position in a forwardly spaced relation to the tube170. A narrow rectangular brake control plate 179 is applied insuperposed bearing relation to the forward surface of the dependent legportion of the plate 173 to have a central aperture therein align withan aperture in the dependent leg portion which together therewithaccommodates the projection therethrough of the body of a bolt. A washeris applied to the body of this bolt between the forward surface of theplate 179 and the head of the bolt and a nut is applied to the innermostthreaded extremity of the bolt which projects through and beyond theinner surface of the dependent leg.

Two apertures are formed in the leg portion of the plate 173 which capsthe upper end of each tube 170, one being aligned with the apertures inthe sleeves 167, 165 at the inner end of the tube and the other beingdisposed outwardly of the tube between it and the dependent leg portionof the plate 173. Based on, fixed in connection with and extendingoutwardly and upwardly from the respective sides of the end portion ofthe plate 173 which caps the tube 170 are elements forming therewith aU-shaped handle the base of which is provided by the plate 173 and theprojected ends of which are bridged by a transversely disposed rod whichmounts thereabout a resilient sleeve to provide a hand grip 175.Overlying the capping end portion of plate 173, and in pivotalconnection with a pin 177 which bridges laterally spaced ears inconnection with and projected from the rear edge thereof is a plate 176.The plate 176 extends forwardly from the pin 177 to and beyond theforward limit of the underlying plate 173. A loop-type finger grip 178connected with the upper surface of the plate 176 projects upwardlytherefrom and perpendicular thereto at a point adjacent its forwardlimit. The upper end of the finger grip 178 normally positions in ahorizontal plane commonly occupied by the rod mounting the resilientsleeve of the hand grip 175. The plate 176 has two apertures therein andas it is normally disposed in a horizontal attitude, these aperturesrespectively align with the apertures in the underlying portion of theplate 173.

Prior to the application of the plate 173 in capping relation to thetube 170, each tube 170 has applied therein, coaxially thereof, acontrol pin 171. The inner end of the pin 171 is arranged to projectthrough the aligned apertures in the sleeves 165, 167 to seat to the rod163. The outer end of the pin 171 at the same time projects upwardlyfrom the upper end of the tube 170 in which it is placed. Fixed inconnection with and about the pin 171, more closely adjacent its innerend than its outer, upper end is a washer-like element the outerperipheral surface of which disposes in bearing relation to the innersurface of the tube 170.

A coil spring 172 disposed about and concentric to the upper portion ofthe pin 171 has the lower end thereof seated to the washer and its upperend abutted to the undersurface of that end portion of the plate 173which is set over and fixed to cap the upper end of the tube 170. Thespring 172 is thereby placed under compression to normally bias theinner end of the pin 171 against the rod 163. As the plate 173 isapplied to cap the upper end of the tube 170 it is so positioned thatthe upper end of the pin 171 projects through the aperture therein whichaligns with the apertures in the sleeves 165 and 167. The upper end ofthe pin 171 similarly projects through the correspondingly locatedaperture in the plate 176 as this plate is applied in a superposedrelation to the plate 173 as and by the means above described. A nut 174is threadedly engaged to the upper end of the pin 171 to seat to theupper surface of the plate. It is through the medium of this nut 174 andthe bias applied thereto that the plate 176 is normally maintained in anabutted relation to the upper surface of the plate 173.

A conventional bicycle brake is mounted to the end portion of eachlength of tubing 146 adjacent the forward portion of the rear wheel towhich it applies. Each brake has one end of a control cable connectedthereto in a manner that the tensioning thereof will induce it to clampto and apply a braking influence on the rim of the related wheel. Theopposite end portion of each cable is in this case threaded through thealigned apertures in the plates 173 and 176, in that order, locatedoutwardly of the tube 170 at the end of the rod 163 most adjacent thebrake from which the cable extends, and above the plate 176 is providedwith a conventional anchor by virtue of which each cable will move withthe plate 176 as and when it is pivoted to and from its base plate 173.

As will be self-evident, from FIGS. 12 and 13, the occupant of the"seat" of the cycle can, at the same time that he or she is gripping thehandle portions 175, extend fingers of the hands to overlap the adjacentupper ends of the loop 178 and with a curling of the fingers pull thesame back, as a result of which to effectively pivot the plates 176upwardly, and apply tension to the brake cables, lifting the pins 171against the bias thereon provided by the spring 172 to, as will befurther described, clear either or both the sleeves 165 and 167, ascircumstances may require.

The levers 180 and 181 which project forwardly of the rod 163 are partsof the mechanism by means of which the cycle of FIGS. 8 through 14 ispropelled. The outer, forward end of the lever 180 has a universal pivotconnection to one end of a lever 182 which depends downwardly therefrom,to one side of and spaced outwardly from the fork 136, to have its lowerend similarly connected to one end of a drive arm 184, the opposite endof which is drivingly interconnected with one end of the drive axle ofthe wheel 14. The arm 181 adjacent the opposite end of the rod 163 issimilarly connected by way of a lever 193 and drive arm 185 to theopposite end of the drive axle of the wheel 14. Note should be taken ofthe basic 90° displacement of the arms 184 and 185.

It will be seen from the foregoing that there is ready access to the"seat" of the cycle of FIGS. 8-14 and that the tube 137, 139 can bereadily rotated 180° from its normal position to facilitate such accesswhere required. This embodiment of the invention can be used to goodadvantage by a paraplegic where the lower limbs have not as yet shownsings of function. As will be seen, the construction of the frame 116and the "seat" of the cycle make it relatively easy to place such aperson in position to operate this vehicle. To this end the paraplegicwill be so placed as to have his or her lower limbs straddle the tubeassembly 131, 137 immediately to the rear of the cushioned frame 141,thereby to provide that the lower limbs of this person depend freely toeither side of the tube assembly. As will be obvious from the drawings,the trunk of the person's body will be inclined forwardly over thecushioned frame 154 to have the abdomen comfortably bear on itscushioned surface to the extent required in the forward inclinationdesired. Normally the components of the "seat" will have been previouslyadjusted to produce the angle of upward inclination of the seat from itsrear to its forward end. This will be determined both to suit the frameof the person for his or her comfort and to work to the desiredobjective of inducing the paraplegic to use the cycle. In any event,once the person has been placed so as to straddle the tube assembly 131,137 and the upper portion of his or her body is inclined as described,the assembly 137, 139, 141 will be brought up to comfortably bear on andabut the buttocks at the lower end of the spine and underlie upperportions of the thighs and the hips to produce an orientation of theupper portion of the body facilitating the treatment and results desiredand the gripping of the handles 175 by the person's hands. At the sametime the lower limbs of the person are brought forward to deposit thefeet of the person on the footrest 125.

It will of course be obvious that the cycle of FIGS. 8 through 14 can beutilized by any person, medically disabled or otherwise, with beneficialresults not only affording exercise of the arms and hands beneficiallyreflected in the upper portion of the body but inducing a mentalcondition contributing to the well being of the person.

Of course suitable adjustments can be made for the comfort of the personat any time.

The construction of the embodiment of FIGS. 8 through 14 provides auniquely simple means and mode of propulsion of this cycle type vehicle.As will be seen from the drawings, under normal conditions, as shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, through the medium of the pins 171 the grips 175 arecoupled to sleeves 165 and 167 and coupled in turn to the collars 190which form the rear end of the lever elements 180 and 181. All theoccupant of the cycle needs to do to commence propulsion is to rock thehand grips forwardly and their interconnected structure back and forththrough a limited arc and simultaneously in opposite directions as aresult of which to transmit to and through the arms 184 and 185 adriving influence producing a forward rotation of the wheel 14. Thearrangement and interconnection provided as between the grips and thedrive arms 184 and 185, as related to the axle of the wheel 14 hasproven to provide distinct mechanical advantages which facilitate asmooth and rapid propulsion of the cycle with a relatively minimalexertion on the part of its user. At the same time, by tilting the rod163 in a downward direction by applying a downward force thereto througha hand grip 175, the steering shaft 162 is correspondingly rotated torotate the interconnected bevel gear 142 and by reason of its mesh withthe gear 140 rotate the fork 136 in its bearings within the post 134 andcorrespondingly turn the wheel 14 in one direction or the other, left orright as needs require. The universal pivot connections provided betweenthe levers embodied in the propulsion system facilitate a very easy andsmooth steering of the vehicle. As will be self-evident, from theprevious description of the braking system, little exertion is requiredfor the occupant of the cycle to project fingers forwardly from thegrips to hook over the loops 178 to apply the brakes to the rear wheelsof the vehicle.

The whole construction and arrangement is such to make the use of theapparatus so simple and easy to operate with a maximum degree of safetythat confidence is given the user of the vehicle, as well as a sense ofwell being in providing the person with an ability to transport his orherself with absolutely minimal exertion and yet with beneficialphysical as well as mental results.

The propulsion system employed in this embodiment of the invention hassuch a high degree of both utility and efficiency that it is admirablysuited for general use in other types of cycle structures and such iscontemplated as being in the spirit and scope of the present invention.

As will be obvious, the embodiments of the invention herein illustratedare only exemplary. Their construction and arrangement may be modifiedin various manner which should be obvious without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention as recited in the accompanying claims.

Particular emphasis is made with reference to the simplicity and utilityof the chassis of the vehicles, in the case illustrated beingessentially comprised of two interconnected loops of tubing. Even moreimportantly, what is a mutual characteristic of the embodimentsillustrated is the requirement for and the structure providing aninclination of the "seat" of the user of each vehicle. As will beself-evident, this distributes the load of the body and establishes anorientation thereof, as dictated by the treatment prescription whichwill best serve the desired end result. The embodiment of FIGS. 1through 7 is most preferred in that the medical benefits can besignificant in use thereof for exercise once the person's physicalcondition and reactions can be stimulated. As should be obvious, initialapproach may be through the use of the embodiment of FIGS. 8-14.

The foregoing, including the summary of the invention should distinctlypoint out the objectives and benefits achieved by the invention whichnot only lend an advance in the field of therapy but provides, as anincident thereof devices having general exercising value and utilitarianpurposes. Most significant is the speed and ease of transportationenabled by the invention as well as its economical cost.

From the above description it will be apparent that there is thusprovided a device of the character described possessing the particularfeatures of advantage before enumerated as desirable, but whichobviously is susceptible of modification in its form, proportions,detail construction and arrangement of parts without departing from theprinciple involved or sacrificing any of its advantages.

While in order to comply with the statute the invention has beendescribed in language more or less specific as to structural features,it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the specificfeatures shown, but that the means and construction herein disclosedcomprise but one of several modes of putting the invention into effectand the invention is therefore claimed in any of its forms ormodifications within the legitimate and valid scope of the appendedclaims.

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property orprivilege is claimed are defined as follows:
 1. An exercising,recreational and utilitarian apparatus comprising a mobile chassishaving forward and rearward ends referenced to a normal direction ofmotion, a chassis mounted support for mid and upper portions of the bodyof a person using the apparatus, means for positioning said support insaid chassis in an inclined attitude of use in which a forward endthereof is elevated relative to a rearward end, a substantiallyforwardly facing seat at the rearward end of said support, asubstantially upwardly facing body rest member on said support forwardlyof said seat, a person using the apparatus straddling said support andinclining forwardly with a mid body section resting on said body restmember and said seat backing up buttock body portions, and apparatuscontrols accessible to the hands of a person so situated, wheelssupporting said chassis, said wheels being disposed so that one portionthereof is in a longitudinally spaced relation to another, one of saidwheels including a portion thereof supported on and in connection with ashaft bearing for rotation in and relative to bearing support means inconnection with said chassis, control means for said portion of said onewheel, said control means including hand operable lever means at least aportion of which is mounted for rotation on and relative to said chassisadjacent and forwardly of said body support, said lever means beingoperatively connected to said shaft for drive thereof and said portionof said one wheel thereby to effect a propulsion of said chassis.
 2. Acycle type vehicle as set forth in claim 1 including two of said handoperable lever means, one for the left hand and one for the right handof the person supported by said chassis and said lever means beinginterconnected to said shaft for simultaneous operation thereof tocommonly drive said shaft and said portion of said one wheel thereby. 3.Apparatus as in claim 2 characterized in that said lever means arecooperatively arranged to produce increments of rotational motion ofsaid shaft by a manipulation thereof in a respectively back and forthrelation in a manner that said lever means, in any one instance aremoving in opposite directions.
 4. Apparatus as in claim 1 includingsteering means for said chassis and said hand operated lever means beingmounted on said steering means.
 5. Apparatus as in claim 4, wherein saidlever means and said steering means are interconnected to provide fortheir simultaneous or selective function, as needs require.
 6. Anexercising, recreational and utiltarian apparatus comprising a chassisincluding a relatively centered base portion elevated from theunderlying base surface on which said chassis is placed in use, avertically extensible support in connection with and rising upwardlyfrom said elevated base portion, the upper end of said verticallyextensible support having thereon a pivotally interconnected, narrow,elongate body support which runs lengthwise of said chassis, said bodyfsupport having a rear end and a forward end and means interconnectingtherewith to maintain it in a forwardly and upwardly inclined positionwith reference to said chassis in use thereof, said elongate bodysupport including an elongate base having a direct connection to saidvertically extensible support, from the rear end portion of which baserises a normally upwardly projected forwardly facing means to serve as aload accommodating abutment surface to seat that portion of the user'sbuttocks which underly the spine and influence thereby a forwardly andupwardly inclined attitude of the upper portion of the user's torso, andmeans over said elongate base of said body support spaced forwardly ofsaid load accommodating abutment surface serving as an underlying restfor the abdomen of the user, freeing use of the user's hands tomanipulate controls connected with said chassis at a location forward ofsaid body support, said body support serving in the process to take themajor portion of the load of the body of the user and relieve the user'slower extremities from any significant load thereon as the user's feetrest on said elevated base portion of said chassis.
 7. Apparatus as inclaim 6 wherein said chassis has means to render it mobile and saidcontrols include hand grips having means interconnected therewithconstructed and arranged to produce a propulsion of said means renderingsaid chassis mobile and a propulsion of said chassis thereby. 8.Apparatus as in claim 6 wherein said chassis comprises a frame includingside portions and a forward portion defining a protective cage for thelower portion of the body of the user of said apparatus.
 9. Apparatus asin claim 8 wherein said load accommodating abutment surface isdisplaceable and said protective cage has an opening thereto tofacilitate the mount of the body of a user to said elongate body supportfrom the rear thereof, thereby making said apparatus particularlyadvantageous for use by one having lower extremities which are weak orotherwise physically impaired.
 10. An exercising, recreational andutilitarian apparatus comprising a mobile chassis having forward andrearward ends referenced to a normal direction of motion, a chassismounted support for mid and upper portions of the body of a person usingthe apparatus, means for positioning said support in said chassis in aninclined attitude of use in which a forward end thereof is elevatedrelative to a rearward end, a substantially forwardly facing seat at therearward end of said support, a substantially upwardly facing body restmember on said support forwardly of said seat, a person using theapparatus straddling said support and inclining forwardly with a midbody section resting on said body rest member and said seat backing upbuttock body portions, and apparatus controls accessible to the hands ofa person so situated, said support including a relatively extensibleportion mounting said seat, and means for extending and retracting saidextensible portion to set and reset said seat more distant from and moreclosely to said body rest member according to the requirements of auser.
 11. Apparatus as in claim 10, said extensible portion beingrotatable to allow said seat to be adjusted to a dependent relation tosaid support to facilitate entrance and exit of a user to and from saidapparatus by way of the rear thereof.
 12. Apparatus as in claim 11, saidmeans for extending and retracting said extensible portion and foreffecting rotary adjustments thereof including manual means locatedforwardly of said body rest member in position to be easily accessibleto a hand of a user.